popcorn balls

Popcorn balls are part of the Halloween season around here. I usually make them a couple of times - once plain and once with the addition of  kids' choice of treat (usually Halloween m&ms). I noticed there is a variety of ways to make them , but I stick to the old Martha Stewart recipe - sweet and reliable!

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for buttering hands
• 1 package miniature marshmallows (10 ounces)
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
• 3 quarts popped popcorn
• 1 cup dried cranberries, or English toffee bits, optional (this is where my kids choose m&ms)

Directions

1. Melt butter in a large heavy pot over low heat. Add marshmallows and brown sugar and stir until melted. Remove from heat.
2. Pour popcorn and cranberries, or English toffee bits if using, into pot; toss well. With buttered hands, shape into 2 1/2-inch balls. Set on parchment lined baking sheet to dry slightly.

Image:readyseteat